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Base Gravy

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Description

Indian Base Gravy, a cornerstone of countless recipes, is a versatile and aromatic blend that sets the stage for an array of flavourful dishes. Crafted from slow-cooked onions, tomatoes, and a medley of spices, this rich and textured gravy forms the foundation for curries across Indian cuisine. Its deep, savoury profile, enhanced by ginger, garlic, and a symphony of spices, imparts a complex taste that elevates each dish it graces. This culinary alchemy transforms humble ingredients into the heart and soul of diverse, delectable Indian meals.

Ingredients

  • 4 large onions, finely chopped
  • 4 tomatoes, chopped
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 teaspoon coriander powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powde
  • 1/2 teaspoon red chilli powder (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
    • Instructions
    1. Heat vegetable oil in a pan. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter. Add finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
    2. Add ginger-garlic paste to the onions. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until the raw smell disappears.
    3. Add chopped tomatoes to the pan. Cook until they become soft and the oil starts separating from the mixture. Add coriander powder, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and garam masala. Stir well.
    4. Cook the mixture on medium heat until the oil separates from the masala. This may take 10-15 minutes.
    5. Allow the mixture to cool. Once cooled, blend it into a smooth paste using a blender or food processor.
    6. You can store this base gravy in portions in the refrigerator for a few days or freeze for longer shelf life.
    7. When preparing a curry, simply add the desired amount of this base gravy to the pan along with your choice of protein, vegetables, and additional spices. Cook until the ingredients are well-cooked and the flavors meld.
    8. Using this base gravy as a starting point simplifies the cooking process for various Indian dishes, saving time and ensuring a consistent, flavorful base for your curries.